Desolation Ridge Trail

The Desolation Ridge Trail is a challenging hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon east of Salt Lake City, Utah. This trail is a consistently steep ascent; hikers should be prepared with proper hiking footwear and plenty of water. We recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles to aid in your ascent and save your knees some strain on the way back down. This hike begins and ends at the lovely Spruces Campground. If you are spending a few nights enjoying the campground, The Desolation Ridge Trail is a great way to get out and explore your surroundings with a morning or afternoon hike.

Beginning at the Spruces Campground, cross over Big Cottonwood Canyon Road and follow Canyon Spruce Road to the Mill D North Fork. Continue following the creek northeast for about a mile before branching off and following the switchbacks eastward to a summit point.

Take a rest at the top and enjoy the views before turning around and heading back to the Mill D North Fork. From the creek, simply follow your footsteps back to the Spruces Campground where you began.